James Rodriguez: Real Madrid forward criticises 'lies' and addresses future
Wednesday 24 June 2020 20:48, UK
James Rodriguez has hit out at accusations he is unprofessional and addressed speculation about his future at Real Madrid.
In an interview with TV programme Gol Caracol, the Colombia international insists criticism of him is fuelled by lies and claims his relationship with Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane is perfectly fine.
Rodriguez also dropped subtle transfer hints by insisting his next move will be to a team that will allow him to show his abilities.
He said: "It's always uncomfortable to listen to the many lies that are said about someone, what's important is the opinion of my family and those who know me.
"Anyway, it's something that doesn't affect me because I know what's true and I work hard every day to be where I am. Those who surround me are always happy with what I have to offer.
"A lot of things have been said about me and almost all of them are lies. What most annoys me is that my professionalism has been put in doubt, and I can't accept that.
"I am very professional, that's why I got where I am now.
"It's reassuring that the people that are by my side and worked with me know what I'm talking about. I take care of myself like nobody else. I train a lot in my day to day. I always want to improve."
The 28-year-old has found himself something of a peripheral figure at the Bernabeu since returning from a two-year loan at Bayern Munich last year, and has been linked with a move to the Premier League.
But Rodriguez could stay at Real beyond the summer, adding perceived differences with Zidane are pure speculation.
"There never was any problem [with Zidane]," Rodriguez said. "Every manager has a different taste. We have a normal working relationship.
"In the future, you never know what's going to happen, but if they let me choose, I would pick a club where I could show my abilities and my conditions."
The attacking midfielder, whose starring role at the 2014 World Cup for Colombia sealed a move to Real from Monaco, did however express frustration at being relegated to mere cameo appearances.
He also added that any footballer who feels his efforts in training are not being rewarded would also find it difficult and feel underused.
"In this moment in time I am not in a protagonist role," he said. "I am training and working for when I will have to, I will do it well.
"I am also thinking about the future, and that I will have to perform at my maximum level wherever I will be. I am happy with what I'm doing, my work and my talent cannot stop me from dreaming.
"I'll be honest: I always want to play, I am competitive.
"At Madrid there are players of incredible quality and I know that with my talent and some consistency I could help the team in so many ways.
"But I understand that Zidane has his basis. He won important things with players that he trusts.
"It's also complicated when your manager doesn't give you minutes consistently, it gets tough."
